One question we get asked a lot here at The Chilliking is how much should I water my pepper plants?
Below we’ve compiled some tips to help you give your peppers the right amount of water they need to flourish.
Watering Tips for Chilli Plants
- Plant your seedlings in clear plastic drinking cups. Not only will this save you money on expensive pots, you will also be able to see how dry/moist the roots are. The soil surface can look dry while just a centimeter or two below the surface the soil will be perfectly moist.
- Learn to pick up you chilli plants before watering them. If the pot feels light, the potting medium is likely dry and in need fo watering. If it feels heavy then they may not need more water. The more you do this the easier it is to judge when your plants need watering.
- Chillies hate wet feet. Ensure your plants have lots of drainage and do not let them sit in a tray full of water. Always water from the top and allow any excess water to drain out of the roots by putting holes in the bottom of the pot helping to reduce fungal infections of the roots.
- Avoid using tap water straight away. Try to let it stand overnight in a watering can or bottle before giving it to your plants. This will firstly let the temperature get up to room temp so as not to shock the plants as well as letting some of the chlorine evaporate meaning your plants get cleaner water.
- If using liquid feed avoid the temptation to use strong doses. We recommend liquid tomato feed diluted to half the recommended strength.
- Water regularly. Letting your plants dry out then giving them a big water can flush out valuable minerals from the soil/compost. Aim to water at least every 2-3 days, more regularly if required. Regular drinks will place less stress on your chilli plants.
The above tips are only advice. Different chilli varieties grown in different environments will all respond differently.
If you are experiencing problems with your plants (e.g flower drop, yellow leaves etc) it is well worth doing some split testing to find out what solves the problem.
Simply take half of the problem plants and experiment – water less/more, add feed, bottom water etc and see what if anything helps cure the problem. Oh and if you find something that works be sure to pass on the tip by posting a comment below.
Hello,
I have a chilli plant that is producing lots of big red chilli’s. According to the can it came in they are ghost chilli’s but they have absolutely no taste or heat. I keep the plant in a pot in my conservatory so it gets plenty of heat and I water if regularly. I did try watering it less but after a day or two without water the plant becomes saggy. Is there something I’m doing wrong?
Thanks
Andrew,
Where did you get your seeds from? If the seeds are not true (cross pollinated with another variety) then deformed fruit or lack of heat can occur. Stick with it and you may find the heat develops but i suspect your plant may not be a true variety. In my opinion it always pays to get your seeds/plants from a reputable supplier.
don’t stop watering them – this will put stress on the plant. the plant needs water to help it make the energy to help them ripen!
When should i stop watering my peppers (in order to get them to ripen to perfection)?